Sleep is imperative to your child’s growth and development. Dr. Muench, our expert orthodontist in Vestal, stresses that adequate sleep helps to ensure both the physical health and mental wellness of your child. However, even if your child sleeps plenty of hours throughout the night, that may not guarantee that they are getting the quality of rest they need.

How Sleep Disordered Breathing May Be Affecting Your Child

Sleep Disordered Breathing (SDB) is a condition that prevents your child from receiving quality sleep, regardless of how long they do so. Dr. Muench explains that SDB is the reduction or interruption of normal breathing during sleep. This prohibits your child from receiving appropriate amounts of oxygen and achieving a full, uninterrupted REM cycle.

Though sleep disorders in children are more prevalent than previously thought, they often go undetected or are misdiagnosed. Your child may not be sleeping well if they experience any of the following symptoms:

Snoring

Hyperactivity (ADD/ADHD)

Mouth-breathing

Restlessness

Dark circles under the eyes

Difficulty waking up and getting out of bed in the morning

Falling asleep during class, not paying attention, having trouble concentrating

If your child exhibits any of the symptoms above, Dr. Muench will work in partnership with you and your child’s healthcare provider to determine the best course of action for your child. Top-rated orthodontist Dr. Muench has a dual-specialization in Pediatric Dentistry, ensuring the highest quality treatment and comfort for your child.

A high percentage of children who experience sleep disordered breathing also have narrow constricted palates, crossbites, severe crowding, and other jaw problems. These dental conditions can make sleep disordered breathing worse and even be the cause in some cases. Dr. Muench has received specialized training to identify any interferences to normal dentofacial development that your child may have. Even if your child does not exhibit sleep abnormalities, it is recommended that they receive an initial orthodontic consultation by age 4 from a certified Orthodontic Specialist.

Sleep disordered breathing can present itself in several different forms. A definitive diagnosis may require a sleep study, which is typically ordered by an ENT doctor. While dental and orthodontic treatment may be viable in some cases, it is important that sleep disorders are evaluated and diagnosed in a comprehensive manner.

Dr. Muench emphasizes the importance of multiple medical professionals and specialists to best treat your child’s sleep disorder. While pediatric dentists are in a unique position to screen for potential sleep disorders, they may not always be able to offer the complete solution. For example, if enlarged tonsils are the cause of your child’s struggle to sleep, no number of dental appliances are a proper remedy. Rather, a referral to your child’s health care provider to address potential removal of the tonsils is best.

Our top-rated Vestal, NY, orthodontist warns parents to be wary of cure-all dental appliances for children before also seeking a confirming opinion from your child’s pediatrician, ENT, sleep physician, or certified orthodontic provider.

Call Our Vestal, NY, Orthodontic Office to Schedule a Consultation

To schedule a consultation with Dr. Muench, call 607.785.3005 or click here for your FREE new patient Muench Smile Assessment.

“After having a horrendous experience with the orthodontist that I was going to and being stuck with braces I couldn't get treated, I stumbled onto Muench orthodontics website. I'm extremely happy I did! I was able to get my braces removed for an extremely good price, along with a great retainer!...”
- Khorin E.

“I refer to Dr. Muench as an artist. He uses his latest technology and skill to really work some magic. I genuinely love going to my appointments to interact with him and his awesome staff. The office in located in a beautiful old home with picturesque grounds that make for an even more pleasant experience.”
- Christina K.

“Our son had a GREAT experience getting his braces on yesterday. He told me, ‘I am glad we chose to come here for braces. It didn't hurt at all!’”

- Jennifer M.

“We went to Dr. Muench for over two years for braces for my daughter. Her teeth look amazing. The dental hygienist and receptionist are amazing.”

- Amy R.

“I highly recommend Doctor Muench! It's very relaxing at the appointments. You are treated like a friend not just a patient who has bad teeth!”

- Kaitlyn D.

“Thanks again for your kindness, gentleness and clarity about how things would go and what he needs to do! ”

- Jennifer M.

“I was scared to have someone look at my teeth. But they put me at ease and I was not scared. ”

- Leah S.

“Dr. Muench is awesome! Very happy with his work and attitude. Thanks!”

- L.B.

“I have nothing but good things to say about Muench Orthodontics! I love the staff and Dr. Muench; all of whom have worked together to me a beautiful smile. Thank you!”

- Gabriella Williams

“Very lovely people along with great work,impressive results.Dr Meunch is a very kind and thoughtful person. Definitely would recommend this office!”

- Liz Menard

“It was great! They are so nice to me, and they never hurt my mouth!I love Dr. Muench and Miss JoAnn!!!”

- Savannah Blasdel

*The reviews listed are from actual patients of Muench Orthodontics. Individual results may vary. Reviews are not claimed to represent results for everyone.